Women urged to share experiences of hormonal health at work, including menstruation, endometriosis, PCOS and fertility, as national survey targets gaps in women’s wellbeing research

/in /by

Menopause Hub, with support from Core, is calling on women to take part in a national survey addressing the under-researched impact of hormonal health in the workplace https://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix/2/p507645617212.aspx

 

A new national survey is calling on women across Ireland to share their experiences of hormonal health and its impact on their working lives in a bid to shine a light on an often overlooked and misunderstood issue.

 

Spearheaded by Menopause Hub, a centre of excellence in menopause care, and supported by Core, Ireland’s largest marketing communications agency, the survey has been designed to capture a broad and representative range of women’s voices.

 

This includes those with direct experience of hormonal health conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menopause, maternity and fertility – many of which remain a silent struggle – as well as women contributing to a wider national picture of hormonal health in the workplace.

 

The survey is being distributed through two key channels, via Menopause Hub to its member base and social media audiences, and through Core’s nationally representative research panel, which is quota-controlled across age, region, and social class.

 

Over 1,000 women have already participated, and early insights highlight the significant impact hormonal health can have on day-to-day working life. Preliminary analysis suggests many women continue to work through difficult symptoms without support or disclosure. A number of respondents also report navigating these challenges in silence, particularly in workplace environments where policies are unclear or absent.

 

Loretta Dignam, Founder and CEO, Menopause Hub, says: “Women’s hormone health has been overlooked for far too long, despite its profound impact on women’s lives, health and experiences at work. Through this survey with Core, we want to build the strongest evidence base yet in Ireland on the ‘3M’ journey – menstruation, maternity and motherhood, and peri/menopause – so we can influence Government, healthcare providers and employers to deliver meaningful change. Women are not mini men, and our policies, workplaces and health systems must start reflecting that.”

 

Emma Kavanagh, Research Director at Core Research, says: “Too many women are managing hormonal health challenges in silence at work, and there is a clear opportunity for organisations to better support them. This survey is an important step in bringing these experiences to light. By truly listening to women, we can help drive policies that not only improve wellbeing, but also strengthen engagement, productivity and retention.”

 

Women across Ireland are encouraged to take part in the survey and ensure their experiences are represented. By contributing, participants can help drive meaningful change in workplace understanding, policy, and support around hormonal health. The survey can be accessed here – https://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix/2/p507645617212.aspx

 

To take part in the survey, scan the QR code below:

Two thirds of advertisers’ websites investigated by the Advertising Standards Authority identified as having potential breaches of prescription-only medicine advertising rules

/in /by

A total of 123 advertisers’ websites were investigated as part of an Advertising Standards Authority monitoring project which identified online advertising that may breach the Code’s prohibition on the promotion of prescription-only medicines to the public

 

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), the independent self-regulatory body committed in the public interest to promoting the highest standards of marketing communications, has completed a monitoring project examining online advertising for cosmetic treatments promoted through advertisers’ websites.

 

The project focused on whether the content of the advertisers’ websites complied with Section 11.16 of the Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications in Ireland, which states that “prescription-only medicines may not be advertised to the public”. Websites were specifically reviewed to assess whether ‘Botox’, and ‘botulinum toxin’ (prescription-only medicines) were referenced or promoted within their content.

 

A total of 123 advertiser websites were examined during the monitoring process, of which 44 did not promote prescription-only medicines. Of the remaining 79 websites (64%), prescription only medicines were promoted, potentially in breach of Section 11.16 of the Code. These advertisers were contacted directly by the Advertising Standards Authority and informed of the relevant advertising rules and regulations.

 

Following engagement with the Advertising Standards Authority, 66 of the advertisers contacted have since amended their website content to address the issues identified.

 

However, 13 cases were subject to investigation and have been referred to the ASA’s Independent Complaints Council. All 13 were found to be in breach of the Code while eight of the advertisers undertook to change their website content.

 

Commenting on the findings, Orla Twomey, Chief Executive of the Advertising Standards Authority, says: “The rules in the Code are extremely clear that prescription-only medicines must not be advertised to the public. References to Botox and botulinum toxin are considered prescription only medicines and these cannot be references in advertising content directed to members of the public.

 

It is encouraging that the majority of advertisers contacted by the ASA engaged with us and amended their content once the issue was brought to their attention. Our approach is to work with advertisers to support compliance with the Code, helping to ensure consumers are safeguarded and that marketing communications are responsible and do not undermine important public health protections.

 

We will continue to engage with advertisers and relevant professional representative bodies to ensure there is a clear understanding of the advertising rules in this area.”

 

The Advertising Standards Authority also has a free Copy Advice Service, allowing prospective ads to be checked against the Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications in Ireland. It is available for advertisers, agencies, media and promoters who plan to advertise in Ireland. You can get your ad checked for free by emailing [email protected]

 

 

Visit adstandards.ie to learn more

 

To keep up to date on Advertising Standards Authority activity, follow the organisation on:

 

Instagram        @adstandardsireland

LinkedIn          @Ad-Standards-Ireland

 

Nobody Heard Them Cry, a brand-new podcast from The Irish Sun, explores the harrowing murders of Esther and Jessica McCann by Frank McCann in 1992

/in /by

  • The Irish Sun’s Nicola Bardon narrates podcast which details the brutal murders of Esther and 18-month-old Jessica at the hands of Frank McCann 33 years ago

 

  • As Frank McCann prepares to face a parole board for the 7th time, the podcast features interviews with Esther’s sister Marian and Frank’s brother Bernard, along with expert insight from Gardaí and Irish Sun Crime Editor Stephen Breen

 

  • Three-part series is available to listen now on all popular streaming platforms

 

 

Nobody Heard Them Cry, a brand-new podcast from The Irish Sun, explores one of Ireland’s most harrowing and haunting murder cases, the deaths of Esther McCann and her 18-month-old foster daughter, Jessica in 1992.

 

The three-part series which is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts now, revisits the shocking killings that took place 33 years ago, when Esther’s husband, publican and swimming coach Frank McCann, deliberately set fire to the family home on Butterfield Avenue in Rathfarnham, Dublin. Esther and baby Jessica were left trapped inside and died in the blaze.

 

Frank McCann was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1996 for their murders and has since spent nearly three decades behind bars, primarily in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy prisons. Now, as he prepares to face a parole board for the seventh time, the case has once again come into sharp public focus.

 

Speaking on the podcast, Marian Leonard, sister of Esther McCann, shares her fears ahead of the parole hearing: “He has a plan. I don’t know what the plan is, but he has a plan to do harm. Whoever he’s going to do the harm to, there could be incidental people in his way. I would have a fear of him burning down our house.”

 

“Once he makes his mind up… if he’s made up his mind to kill somebody, nothing will have changed. All those years that he’s been inside – whether it’s Bernard, me, my brother, whoever – nothing will have changed Frank McCann’s mind. He is as dangerous today as he was in 1992.”

 

Narrated by Nicola Bardon, making her debut as a podcast host, Nobody Heard Them Cry takes a deep and unflinching look at the case that shocked the nation in the summer of 1992.

 

At the heart of the series are powerful contributions from Esther’s family. Her sister, Marian Leonard, speaks candidly about her ongoing fear as Frank McCann seeks parole, while his brother, Bernard McCann, reflects on the devastating impact of the murders – and the lasting hatred and contempt he still feels decades later.

 

Bernard McCann recalls a chilling conversation with Esther just days before her death: “We were at my brother Derek’s wedding, a lovely sunny day, and Esther came over to us. We’re a happy-go-lucky family, always joking, and she said, ‘Frank’s trying to kill me.’”

 

“We all laughed it off at first, but she repeated it: ‘No, Frank’s trying to kill me.’ Something interrupted the conversation and we all went our separate ways.”

 

“I think about it often. If I had acted… if I had been more aware. But nobody there believed it at the time. Life is full of ‘what ifs’, isn’t it?”

 

Brought to you by the makers of the number one podcasts ‘The Stardust Tragedy’, ‘The Kinahans’ and ‘The Making of a Detective’, Nobody Heard Them Cry also features expert analysis from gardaí Martin Walker and Michael Campbell, alongside insights from Irish Sun Crime Editor Stephen Breen, helping to piece together the full story behind the case.

 

All three episodes of Nobody Heard Them Cry are available to listen to now on all popular podcast platforms.

 

Fiona Wynne, Editor of The Irish Sun, says: “For too long the world knew only about the tragic and heartbreaking way the lives of Esther and Jessica ended. Now, through the courage and fortitude of those who loved them most, we were able to show the world the light they brought while they were here.

It’s been a privilege to tell their stories. Our deepest gratitude and respect to Marian, Bernard and all who trusted us to give a voice to two innocent people who deserved so much more, as they continue to grapple with the repeated parole bids of the double killer who turned their lives upside down.”

 

You can listen to Nobody Heard Them Cry here on Spotify or Apple

 

The Irish Sun is Ireland’s bestselling daily tabloid newspaper, with the latest local and global news, fashion, entertainment and sport.

 

Check out www.thesun.ie or follow us on @IrishSunOnline

 

Advertising Standards Authority launches public consultation on Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications in Ireland

/in /by

The Advertising Standards Authority is inviting individuals, organisations, industry stakeholders and members of the public to submit their views and suggestions for the Code before 9th May 2026 on adstandards.ie

 

 

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), the independent self-regulatory body committed to promoting the highest standards of marketing communications in the public interest, has launched a six-week public consultation on the future scope and content of the Code of Standards for Advertising and Marketing Communications in Ireland (the Code).

 

The Code sets out the standards that advertisers, agencies, and media are required to follow and plays a central role in promoting responsible advertising and maintaining public trust in marketing communications across Ireland.

 

The ASA is undertaking a review and refresh of the Code to ensure it continues to safeguard consumers from advertising that is harmful, offensive, or misleading.  ASA’s review will take account of the advertising landscape which has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by changes in media consumption, the growth of digital platforms, and shifts in consumer behaviour.

 

As part of this review, the ASA is inviting a wide range of stakeholders to submit their views and suggestions on the Code, including organisations and businesses, Government agencies, members of the public, and industry bodies. Interested parties can submit their thoughts and recommendations until 9th May via adstandards.ie

 

 

The consultation will run alongside a national awareness campaign across a range of media platforms, encouraging public participation and engagement.

 

Orla Twomey, Chief Executive of the Advertising Standards Authority, said: “This consultation period is an incredibly important opportunity for everyone with an interest in advertising – from industry stakeholders to members of the public – to have their voice heard and help shape the future of advertising standards in Ireland.

 

It is important that the Code continues to reflect the contemporary expectations of consumers, advertisers and agencies, while setting clear and robust standards that promote responsible, honest and trustworthy advertising.

 

Advertising plays a powerful role in everyday life, and it is equally important that the Code is informed by the views of the people who consume it. We are committed to making this an open and inclusive process, and we strongly encourage all stakeholders to take part, share their perspectives, and help shape a Code that continues to protect consumers and supports a diverse, responsible advertising industry.”

 

The ASA also wishes to acknowledge and thank its media partners for their support in promoting the consultation campaign which will run across Out of Home, Radio, Press and Digital.

 

Visit adstandards.ie to learn more

 

To keep up to date on Advertising Standards Authority activity, follow the organisation on:

 

Instagram        @adstandardsireland

LinkedIn          @Ad-Standards-Ireland

An Post Irish Book Awards celebrates 20 year anniversary by unveiling list featuring 60 of the best fiction, non-fiction and children’s category winners over the past two decades

/in /by

Call on the public to now vote to identify the Top 20 Favourite Irish Books from the Irish Book Awards winners

 

List includes books by Paul Murray, Katriona O’Sullivan, Roddy Doyle, Louise O’Neill, Paddy Donnelly, Andrea Mara, Fintan O’Toole, Louise Kennedy, Paul Howard, Claire Keegan, Colin Walsh, Eilish Fisher, Sally Hayden, Manchán Magan, Liz Nugent, Luke O’Neill and many more…..

 

The An Post Irish Book Awards, one of Ireland’s most distinguished and popular literary events, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with the release of a curated list featuring 60 of the best books from category winners over the past two decades.

 

Selected through the votes from leading booksellers nationwide, the list comprises 20 Fiction, 20 Non-Fiction and 20 Children’s titles drawn from An Post Irish Book Awards winners since the ceremony first began in 2006.

 

Books by a wide range of celebrated authors including Seán Ronayne, Emilie Pine, Joseph O’Connor, Emma Donoghue, Peter Donnelly and Catherine Ryan Howard feature on the list, which has been carefully curated to reflect the breadth and impact of Irish writing over the past 20 years. The full list of 60 titles can be found at anpostirishbookawards.ie

 

The public is now invited to vote for their favourite titles from the Top 60 list. Voting will open on Monday, 23rd March and close at 6pm on Monday, 13th April. The final Top 20 Favourite Irish Books of the past 20 years will then be revealed on Sunday, 19th April.

 

Everyone who votes will be entered into a prize draw, with a range of prizes on offer, including €100 in National Book Tokens, a selection of books from the list, and tickets to the An Post Irish Book Awards 2026 ceremony.

 

Bookshops across Ireland will also support the campaign with special in-store displays celebrating the 60 selected titles.

 

Alastair Giles, CEO of the Irish Book Awards, says: “Over the past 20 years, the An Post Irish Book Awards has celebrated the depth and diversity of Irish writing. This curated list of 60 books offers a snapshot of some of the most memorable and influential titles recognised by the awards since 2006, reflecting the exceptional talent that has shaped Irish literature over the past two decades. We’re delighted to invite readers across the country to vote for the books that have meant the most to them, and we look forward to revealing the Top 20.”

 

David McRedmond, CEO at An Post, says: “An Post’s commitment to the Irish Book Awards is steadfast. To celebrate 20 years of the awards we want to showcase the extraordinary breadth of talent in Irish writing which is truly world-class. The top-60 books over the period of the awards have delighted and inspired readers, and this opportunity to revisit them is the best way to celebrate Irish writing.”

 

Since its launch in 2006, the An Post Irish Book Awards has promoted Irish writing to the widest possible readership. Each year it brings together a vibrant community of readers, authors, booksellers, publishers and librarians to recognise the very best of Irish writing.

 

The awards feature a diverse mix of exceptional writing from new and established writers across 18 categories, including Novel of the Year, Children’s, History, Crime Fiction, Popular Fiction, Non-fiction, Sports, Lifestyle, Short Story, Irish Language, Poetry, Newcomer, Teen and Young Adult, Irish Published and Biography.

 

Hundreds of books are submitted for consideration each year and, over the past two decades, an array of new and established domestic and international authors have graced the Irish Book Awards stage.

 

In addition to category winners, a special honour is presented at the event. The Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award recognises the contribution of distinguished Irish writers and poets. Previous recipients include Martin Waddell, Anne Enright, Sebastian Barry, Colm Tóibín, Thomas Kinsella, Eavan Boland, John Montague, J.P. Donleavy, Paul Durcan, John Banville, Maeve Binchy, John McGahern, Edna O’Brien, William Trevor and Séamus Heaney.

 

www.anpostirishbookawards.ie

 

Instagram:    @irishbookawards

TikTok:          @irishbookawards

Bluesky:       @irishbookawards.bsky.social

X:                    @irishbookaward

Facebook:    IrishBookAwards

 

Lisney appoints Aoife Brennan as CEO to drive next phase of growth for the commercial and residential property advisory business

/in /by

Lisney, one of Ireland’s largest and longest-established independently owned and operated property advisory companies, is delighted to announce the appointment of Aoife Brennan as its new Chief Executive Officer as the firm enters its next phase of strategic growth and innovation.

 

Aoife succeeds David Byrne following his six-year tenure in the role. David will continue to lead the residential division as Managing Director of Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty, while James Nugent will lead the commercial business as Managing Director of Lisney Commercial Real Estate.

 

Aoife’s appointment as CEO marks an important milestone as the company builds on the progress made in recent years. With almost 25 years’ experience in the Irish property sector, Aoife’s strategic insight, knowledge of all parts of the commercial and residential property markets, and her collaborative leadership style make her exceptionally well placed to lead Lisney into its next chapter.

 

Together with the leadership team, the firm’s Senior Directors and Chairperson Catherine Duffy, Aoife will continue to strengthen the organisation’s position as a trusted, progressive, client-focused and data-driven advisor, delivering seamless services to commercial and residential clients through Lisney Commercial Real Estate and Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty.

 

Aoife joined Lisney in 2006 and has worked within the research, investment, land and valuation divisions during her tenure. For the past 18 years, she has led Lisney’s Research & Consultancy division, a respected, data-driven function that supports internal teams as well as a wide range of institutional, private and public sector clients.

 

She has been a Director of Lisney since 2016 and has sponsored, or been deeply involved in, all major strategic initiatives undertaken by the firm in recent years. Her long-standing tenure, combined with her deep knowledge of both commercial and residential property markets, provides her with a comprehensive understanding of Lisney’s operations, culture and strategic positioning.

 

Aoife holds an MSc in Planning & Development and a BSc in Property Economics, both from Technological University Dublin. She is a Fellow of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

 

Commenting on her appointment, Aoife Brennan said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as CEO of Lisney and wish to thank my fellow Senior Directors for their confidence in me as the firm enters its next phase. I want to pay tribute to David for his outstanding work over the past six years. He successfully brought us through the pandemic in his first few weeks in charge and then implemented significant structural and operational changes to strengthen the firm’s foundations and position it for future growth. I look forward to building on his hard work. 

 

We are operating in a world of constant change, and in response, my vision for Lisney is to be even more client‑centred, more data‑driven and more decisive. My focus will be on developing our expertise, our people and our systems so that Lisney is the best partner for our clients and the best place to build a career. We will proactively bring foresight to every client relationship and deliver a seamless service across the full range of property offerings we provide – reflecting the very best of Lisney.”

 

For more details about Lisney, visit www.lisney.com

 

Core Creative announces new Senior Management Team to support expanding client portfolio and deliver even bolder, more effective work

/in /by

Core Creative, the creative practice of Core, Ireland’s largest marketing communications agency, has unveiled a new senior management team to enhance its creative ambition, maintain its focus on measurable commercial results through high-impact campaigns, and drive the next phase of business growth.

 

The announcement marks a significant milestone for Core Creative, which this year celebrates five years of delivering results driven campaigns for some of Ireland’s biggest brands. In that time, the agency has built a strong reputation for effectiveness, most recently topping the leaderboard at the 2025 Effie Awards Ireland with nine awards (three Gold, three Silver and three Bronze), ranking as Ireland’s most effective agency and tenth most effective in Europe.

 

Building on its track record of strong business performance, Core Creative is entering its next chapter with a renewed focus on elevating its creative output and strengthening its presence in Ireland and internationally.

 

Led by Caitriona Ní Laoire, Managing Director of Core Creative, the newly appointed senior management team brings together decades of top-tier agency experience across creative, operations and client leadership. Working in close collaboration with Core Strategy, led by Head of Strategy: Shane Doyle, and the wider Core Creative team, the strengthened leadership group will focus on delivering sharper strategic thinking, high-quality creative craft and efficient delivery – producing distinctive work designed to drive business growth.

 

Rob Murray and Shane O’Brien have been appointed as Creative Partners to elevate creative standards and output across the agency. In their roles, they will lead the development of distinctive brand strategies and creative platforms that will deliver cut through across multiple platforms, ensuring ideas are both expertly crafted and built to deliver measurable impact for clients.

 

Rob, formerly Creative Director at Core, has extensive experience in creative storytelling and brand building. Since joining the agency, he has led some of Core’s most memorable campaigns, including the launch of Sky Mobile in Ireland featuring Roy Keane, Sky’s sponsorship of the Irish Men’s and Women’s National Teams, and the award-winning Outbelieve campaign.

 

Rob has also created some of Ireland’s most iconic advertising work, including AIB’s The Toughest, Lidl’s Level the Playing Field, and Lyons’ Put the Talk into Tea.

 

Prior to joining Core, he held senior creative roles including Creative Director at BBDO Dublin and Rothco, and Art Director at Grey.

 

Shane is a multi-award-winning creative director, copywriter, and screenwriter, with a distinguished advertising career that includes roles such as Executive Creative Director at BBDO, Creative Director at Rothco, Creative Director at Guns or Knives, Senior Copywriter at Rothco, and Copywriter at Irish International BBDO. Shane also has a diverse creative background in comedy for stage, television, and film, with credits across RTÉ 2, BBC 3, Channel 4, and multiple feature films.

 

Together, their work has been celebrated globally, earning accolades at Cannes Lions, D&AD, The One Show, Clio Awards, Eurobest, London International Awards, EPICA Awards, Kinsale Sharks, ICAD, Effies, Webbies, and the Lovies.

 

Ann Sheridan, Head of Creative Operations, has been promoted to drive operational excellence across Core Creative, utilising smarter workflows, leveraging Core’s tools and technology, and ensuring greater consistency and efficiency – supporting the team in producing high-quality work for clients.

 

Kate O’Callaghan has been promoted to Creative Business Partner, working closely with the senior team to further build and strengthen the business, while Gráinne Kehoe, as Head of Client Service, will lead the high standards of partnership and trust that Core Creative has become known for.

 

Speaking on the announcement, Caitriona Ni Laoire, Managing Director, said,

“Over the past five years, we’ve shown that creativity can be a real commercial advantage when paired with strong standards and effectiveness. Now we’re building on that foundation. With Rob and Shane joining as Creative Partners, and Ann, Kate and Gráinne strengthening how we deliver and partner with clients, we’re raising our ambition for the work. The team shares an incredible spirit and a commitment to getting great ideas made. Our goal is clear: produce bolder, more distinctive creative that drives results and growth.”

 

Creative Partners Shane O’Brien and Rob Murray said:
“Stepping into the role of Creative Partners gives us the opportunity to focus even more deliberately on the fundamentals of great creative work. Strong ideas, high standards, proper craft and an environment where creativity is genuinely valued. Core already has a proven effectiveness mindset, backed by one of the strongest strategy teams in Ireland, and that creates the right conditions for ideas to go further. Our role is to build a culture where the work is rigorously thought through, beautifully made and genuinely brave. Working together again and doing so alongside Caitriona and such an experienced senior team, feels like the right place to do the best work of our careers.”

 

New immersive visual arts programme for Kildare primary schools launched by Riverbank Arts Centre in collaboration with the Shackleton Experience, Athy

/in /by

A new immersive visual arts programme for primary school students across Kildare has been unveiled by Riverbank Arts Centre in collaboration with the Shackleton Experience, Athy, the only institution in the world dedicated to the life and achievements of Kildare-born polar explorer Ernest Shackleton.

 

The project, An Antarctic Journey with Martina McDonald and the Shackleton Experience, aims to deliver an immersive visual arts programme for primary school students across Kildare through photography, storytelling, and artefact encounters. Students will also explore Martina’s personal Antarctic journey alongside the legacy of Ernest Shackleton in an exciting, interactive and engaging way.

 

The project combines an interactive tour with Martina and Shackleton Experience Tour Guides in the venue followed by an in-school printmaking workshop the subsequent week, highlighting print as a historic method of documenting exploration. This two-part experience invites children to connect imagination, creativity, and adventure.

 

Speaking about the project Martina says: “This project is a wonderful opportunity to bring art and history together, allowing children to experience exploration through Shackleton’s story and my own journey to Antarctica. By combining museum discovery and in-school creations, students will be supported to express their own creative responses to adventure and place.”

 

The project, which is due to officially launch in April 2026, has already had its first test run with Third Class students from Scoil Phádraig Naofa, Athy. The students were thoroughly engaged as they were led through the Experience by Martina and Tour Guides Adam Guthrie and Alyssa Russell, which included a stop to view a slideshow featuring photos from Martina’s trip to Antarctica in February 2025.

 

Aline FitzGerald, General Manager of the Shackleton Experience, commented: “We are delighted to be working with Riverbank on such an exciting and innovative project which brings the story of Ernest Shackleton to life in such a creative and meaningful way. By connecting our immersive and interactive experience with Martina’s hands-on artistic expertise, we are giving primary school students in Kildare the opportunity to engage with themes of exploration, resilience and courage in a truly memorable way.”

 

If you are a teacher and interested in signing your class up for An Antarctic Journey with Martina McDonald and the Shackleton Experience, or would like more information please contact Riverbank’s Box Office team on 045 448327 or email [email protected]

 

The programme is free of charge but places are limited.

 

Riverbank Arts Centre:
Riverbank Arts Centre is a multi-disciplinary venue in Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. Riverbank Arts Centre works in partnership with international, national and local artists to deliver an accessible and consistently high-quality arts programme in an intimate environment. We provide a multi-disciplinary programme which includes theatre, cinema, comedy, music, dance, workshops and visual arts. With a dedicated children’s gallery and programming of high-quality theatre and workshops for younger audiences, Riverbank is also committed to promoting early engagement with and access to the arts. Riverbank Arts Centre is funded by Kildare County Council and The Arts Council.  For more information: https://www.riverbank.ie/

For more information contact [email protected]

 

About the Shackleton Experience, Athy

The Shackleton Experience in Athy, Co. Kildare, is the only institution in the world dedicated to the extraordinary life and achievements of Ernest Shackleton, the legendary polar explorer who was born just outside Athy.

 

The venue has been transformed into a world-class visitor attraction that combines the largest collection of Shackleton artefacts in the world with cutting-edge technology and immersive, interactive exhibits following a €7.5 million redevelopment.

 

Visitors can trace Shackleton’s inspiring journey from his Kildare roots to the vast Polar ice caps, capturing the determination and leadership that defined his legacy. They can also explore in detail the three expeditions he led to the Antarctic, including the legendary Endurance expedition (1914–1917) where Shackleton managed to bring the entire crew home safely without the loss of a single life after their ship sank in a frozen sea hundreds of miles from civilisation.

An Post to donate and deliver over 40,000 books to children in hospitals, care settings and Direct Provision Centres for World Book Day THIS Thursday, 5th March – in partnership with Children’s Books Ireland

/in /by

  • Aim of the initiative is to give every child and young person the opportunity to choose and own a book they’ll love

 

  • All primary and secondary schools in Ireland will have the chance to select one of 15 specially selected titles for every age and reading level at their local participating bookshops and retailers

 

  • Parents, guardians and families are encouraged to look out for their World Book Day tokens and visit participating retailers to redeem them for a World Book Day title before Sunday, 15th March

 

  • Irish authors and illustrators including Leona Forde, Karen Harte, Áine Ní Ghlinn, Andrew Whitson aka Mr Ando, Kevin Moran, Sheena Dempsey, Paddy Donnelly and Sibéal Pounder feature in the World Book Day selection, as well as Irish language book and a range of books in braille, large print and audio formats

 

 

Over 40,000 books will be delivered to children who need them most in hospitals, care settings and Direct Provision Centres across the country by An Post for World Book Day, which will take place THIS Thursday, 5th March.

 

Through its ‘Make Better Happen’ campaign, An Post – the official delivery partner for World Book Day in Ireland – is joining forces with Children’s Books Ireland to champion the joy of reading and give children and young people across the country who may not have access to books the chance to choose and own a title they will love and enjoy.

 

Additionally, as part of World Book Day, which is celebrating its 27th anniversary, all primary and post-primary schools across the Republic of Ireland will receive a World Book Day Token that each child can use to redeem one of 15 selected books for children of all ages and reading abilities. Alternatively, the tokens can be used to receive €1.50 off any full-price book or audiobook priced over €3.99 at participating bookshops and retailers.

 

In total, 15 books are available for selection, including one book in Irish, supported by Foras na Gaeilge called ‘Rita agus an tEachtrán’, written by Máire Zepf, illustrated by Mr Ando aka Andrew Whitson and published by An tSnáthaid Mhór. A wide selection of books will also be made available in braille, large print and audio formats, with support from ChildVision and Vision Ireland.

 

A number of books by Irish authors and illustrators also feature in the World Book Day lineup including:

 

  • The Doomsday Club: Shape-Shifters – Kevin Moran (The O’Brien Press – Irish Published)
  • Milly McCarthy and the St. Patrick’s Day Pandemonium – Leona Forde, illustrated by Karen Harte (Gill Books – Irish Published)
  • Pablo and Splash: The Castle Quest – Sheena Dempsey (Bloomsbury)
  • The Big Bang – Rose Ayling-Ellis in collaboration with Katie Blackburn, illustrated by Paddy Donnelly (DK)
  • Chaos at the Chocolate Factory – Sibéal Pounder, illustrated by Emily Jones (Puffin)

 

Participating booksellers include Eason, Dubray, Tesco, Waterstones and a number of independent local booksellers. Families are encouraged to visit participating booksellers to redeem their token and join in the celebration of reading, imagination and storytelling.

 

Tokens are valid until Sunday, 15th March and are also available through various magazines, McDonalds Happy Meal boxes and community partnerships.

 

Debbie Byrne, Managing Director of An Post Retail, says:

“For a child going through illness or instability, a book can offer a moment of comfort and escape, a chance to step away from waiting rooms, worry and recovery and into a world of imagination. That’s why we’re proud to support World Book Day in Ireland as the official delivery partner. Alongside our partners and charities nationwide, we’re delivering book tokens to schools and donating and delivering over 40,000 books to children in hospital, in Direct Provision and in temporary accommodation, helping to ensure every child can experience the joy of getting lost in a story, no matter their circumstances this World Book Day.”

 

Elaina Ryan, CEO of Children’s Books Ireland, says:

“World Book Day is an opportunity for every child to celebrate reading, and by working with An Post to gift 40,000 books to children all over Ireland, we will ensure that the event is truly inclusive. This year’s book selection has comics, picturebooks, old favourites and new friends to discover – and a remarkable number of Irish authors and illustrators whose brilliant work will delight readers. This World Book Day, our hope is that all children find a book to love, and that – however you choose to celebrate it – that families, teachers and communities can carve out the time to get lost in a great read together.”

 

Instagram                     @anpostofficial

TikTok                          @anpostofficial

X                                  @Postvox

Facebook:                    @An Post

Advertising Standards Authority Releases Latest Complaints Bulletin

/in /by

ASA’s Independent Complaints Council has upheld fifteen cases in full, and one case in part in its latest complaints bulletin. Advertisements across Online, Social Media, Radio and Brochure were found to be in breach of the ASA Code. The Complaints Council chose to not uphold four complaints.

 

A TonyBet ad suggested gambling could be a source of income; VHI claimed to cover all oncology treatments despite exclusions in its plans; and a product marketed as ‘100% Irish Made’ that was being shipped from China.

 

Cases were upheld against:

 

  • Glaze Aura
  • Irish Supply
  • Dpharmacy.ie
  • Inglot and @twins_and_me_
  • VHI
  • Body Ballancer
  • TonyBet
  • Leonard Wilson Keenan
  • UBER Eats
  • Simple Life (AM APPS Ltd) and @twins_and_me_
  • Lidl Ireland
  • Current Body
  • Abbey Blue Legal
  • SIRO
  • KamaGames

 

Commenting on the latest Advertising Standards Authority rulings, Orla Twomey, Chief Executive of the Advertising Standards Authority, said: “The Advertising Standards Authority is dedicated to protecting consumers from advertising that is misleading, harmful, or offensive. Our latest complaints bulletin highlights the range of cases we address, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to honesty, transparency, and integrity across Ireland’s advertising landscape.

 

These rulings underscore the importance of transparency, and responsibility in all forms of advertising. Beyond enforcing compliance, we are committed to promoting the principles of the Code across the industry, helping to build public trust in marketing communications.

Additionally, to assist advertisers, we offer a free and confidential copy advice service, guiding them in creating responsible and compliant advertisements. This service provides invaluable guidance for advertisers, agencies and media that carry advertisements who may have questions or concerns about the compliance of marketing communications. We encourage anyone in the industry to take advantage of this resource to ensure their advertising is both responsible and effective.”

 

Below is a list of 15 advertisements that have been found to be in breach of the Advertising Standards Authority Code:

 

Advertiser Glaze Aura
Medium Online (Social Media / Website)
Status Issues 1 and 2: Upheld
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-96/
Description
 

Advertising on Glaze Aura’s social media and website for the product Glazevale Tallow Honey Balm included a number of statements including ‘100% Grass-Fed Tallow’ and ‘Irish Made,’ and highlighted ingredients including raw honey, olive oil, and essential oils.

 

Issue 1:

The complainants considered the social media advertising misleading as it claimed that the product was Irish made however, upon placing an order, they noted the product was shipped from China.

 

Issue 2:

A complainant considered the ingredients listed in the advertising were misleading as while the product name on the label was ‘Woodsleep Tallow Honey Balm’, the list of product ingredients on the label did not include any of those listed in the advertising.

 

 

Advertiser Irish Supply
Medium Online (Company’s Own Website)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/household-55/
Description
 

The advertisement was a listing for the BRAVA Mandoline Vegetable Slicer, showing several differently coloured mandolines demonstrating the product’s various applications. The listing also included a series of customer reviews, all of which rated the product five stars.

 

The complainant stated that they ordered the product but received an inferior imitation of the product depicted in the advertisement. They further noted that the product supplied differed in appearance and quality from the advertised version, including variations in the handle design and blade area.

 

 

Advertiser Dpharmacy.ie
Medium Online (Company’s Own Website)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Price
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-97/
Description
 

The advertisement was a listing on the advertiser’s own website for Ariana Grande Ari EDP 50ml perfume. Under the picture of the product, the price was listed as €40.00 with €100.00 crossed out.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading as they claimed the product had never been on sale for €100.00.

 

 

Advertiser Inglot Cosmetics Ltd. and @twins_and_me_
Medium Online (Social Media)
Status Upheld (Issues 1 and 2)
Category Misleading / Recognisability
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-98/
Description
 

The advertisements were Instagram stories posted by the influencer, @twins_and_me_, showing the application of Inglot Cosmetics products. In the first story, text on screen stated ‘I have 30% off Inglot website – Julie is code,’ with the word ‘Ad’ displayed in small white text in the bottom right corner. In the second story, the text read ‘Spot the difference – Mascara is linked – Julie’ is discount,’ with the label ‘@inglotireland ad’ in cursive white text in the top right-hand corner.

 

Issue 1:

he complainant believed that the advertising disclosures were not sufficiently clear or prominent. They said the labels were small, placed in the corners of the screen, and blended into the background, meaning viewers may not immediately recognise the content as advertising.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant also claimed that a filter had been applied while the makeup was being demonstrated, which they considered misleading as it could alter the appearance of the products.

 

 

Advertiser VHI
Medium Advertiser’s Own Website
Status Upheld
Category Misleading
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-99/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared on the advertiser’s own website and featured a webpage promoting VHI Cancer Care. The page included statements such as ‘Complete support when you need it’ and ‘With you every step of the way,’ and outlined benefits including fast access to treatment, new cancer drugs, and that ‘All your oncology treatment… will be fully covered by your VHI plan.’ Disclaimers were included on the page stating that benefits vary by plan and directing consumers to check their individual Table of Benefits in MyVhi.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement to be misleading as they believed the wording suggested that all cancer treatments would be covered under VHI plans. They said that they were later advised that their particular treatment was not covered under their plan, or any plan offered by VHI, and therefore felt the claims created a misleading impression about the extent of cover available.

 

 

Advertiser Body Ballancer
Medium Online (Social Media)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-and-beauty-16/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared on a community Notice Board Facebook page and promoted a lymphatic massage device called Body Ballancer®. The advertisement included statements such as ‘Try the amazing Body Ballancer Kinsale…’ and ‘book your appointment for a lighter more energised YOU!’ It also featured a testimonial from a named magazine claiming that the treatment could lead to shapelier legs, improved circulation and a reduction in cellulite.

 

The complainant believed the advertisement was promoting a beauty product with unsubstantiated medical claims and played on the fears and insecurities of menopausal women by promising elements like reduced cellulite and more slender limbs.

 

 

Advertiser TonyBet
Medium Online (YouTube Advertisement)
Status Upheld
Category Gambling
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/leisure-49/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared as a sponsored video on YouTube promoting the gambling brand TonyBet. The ad depicted a man using his phone while sitting on the toilet and included the on-screen statement, ‘Only 3% of people can do this. Make money while sitting on the toilet.’ A footnote also appeared containing a responsibility message and terms and conditions relating to the offer.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement to be misleading and irresponsible, as they believed it suggested that gambling was easy, while downplaying the potential risks and harms associated with gambling.

 

 

Advertiser TonyBet
Medium Online (YouTube Advertisement)
Status Upheld
Category Gambling
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/leisure-50/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared as a sponsored video on YouTube promoting the sports betting casino at TonyBet. The ad depicted a woman holding a baby with on screen text saying, ‘It’s hard to pay my rent and take care of my babies.’ Later in the video, the woman was shown giving a thumbs up alongside text that stated, ‘But I made $8,500 last month.’ A footnote also appeared containing a responsibility message and terms and conditions relating to the offer.

 

Two complainants objected to the advertisement. One complainant considered that the advertisement depicted gambling as financially beneficial. The second complainant believed the advertisement created the dangerous impression that gambling could resolve personal or financial difficulties, targeting vulnerable individuals, and encouraging harmful gambling behaviour.

 

 

Advertiser Leonard Wilson Keenan
Medium Online (Third party)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/property-21/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared as an online property listing and described the property as a ‘3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Mid Terrace Cottage’.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement to be misleading as they believed the property was, in fact, a two-bedroom house. They said that one of the rooms described as a bedroom consisted of a curtained-off area which they did not consider large enough to function as a bedroom.

 

 

Advertiser UBER Eats
Medium Brochure
Status Upheld
Category Misleading
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/food-beverages-25/
Description
 

The advertisement was an Uber Eats leaflet which stated ‘Try Uber Eats and get 80% off*’ and ‘New customers can enjoy 80%* off their first 3 orders.”’  An asterisk linked to text at the bottom of the leaflet which explained that the offer was ‘80% off (save up to €15), when you spend €15 or more on menu items

.’

The complainant considered the advertisement to be misleading, as they believed the headline claim of ‘80% off’ was contradicted by the terms of the offer, given that savings were capped at €15 and the discount was therefore limited.

 

 

Advertiser Simple Life (AM APPS Ltd) and @twins_and_me_
Medium Online (Social Media)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Recognisability
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-100/
Description
 

The advertisement appeared as stories on the influencer’s own Instagram account promoting the weight loss app Avo. An affiliate link to the app was provided in the advertisement offering a 50% discount with the word ‘Ad’ in white text.

 

The complainant considered the advertisement misleading as it was not immediately clear that the content was a marketing communication due to the size and prominence of the text.

 

 

Advertiser Lidl Ireland
Medium Online (Company’s Own Website)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Price
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/retail-supermarket-17/
Description
 

The advertisement featured as a listing on the Lidl website promoting a Massage Gun at a 37% discount for Lidl Plus members. The advertisement stated that the offer was available ‘From 15.09’ and ‘only in store from 15.09.’

 

The complainant stated that no end date was included and observed that when they attempted to purchase the product on October 11th, the promotion was no longer available and they were charged the full price.

 

 

Advertiser Current Body
Medium Online (Influencer’s Social Media Account)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/health-beauty-101/
Description
 

An Instagram story featured an influencer wearing the Current Body LED face mask where she said the

product was “proven to reduce wrinkles by 35%.”

 

The complainant stated that the claim was misleading, as neither the influencer nor the brand had included substantiation for the figure.

 

 

Advertiser Abbey Blue Legal Ltd
Medium Online (Company Own Website and Social Media)
Status Upheld
Category Misleading
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/40947/
Description
 

Online content on Abbey Blue Legal Ltd’s website and LinkedIn included a number of statements such as ‘We specialise in Irish immigration services, offering over 50 years of combined expertise to help you achieve your dreams’ and ‘Talk to an expert about your Irish immigration needs’, In the footer of each webpage, a disclaimer stated ‘We are not solicitors.’

 

The complainant objected to the advertisement as they believed it implied that the service provided was offered by solicitors or qualified legal practitioners. While they noted the disclaimer in the footnote, they considered that the content was written with the intention to give the impression the service was provided by a legal practitioner.

 

 

Advertiser KamaGames
Medium Online (Third Party Website)
Status Upheld (Issue 2)
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/leisure-48/
Description
 

A paid online advertisement on X for KamaGames Blackjackist game stated ‘No annoying notifications. No purchases. Just. Good. Old. Blackjack.’

 

Issue 1:

The complainant considered that the claim ‘no annoying notifications’ required substantiation.

 

Issue 2:

The complainant considered that the claim ‘no purchases’ was misleading as they believed that the game included in-game purchases.

 

 

The Complaints Council chose to uphold one complaint made by an intra-industry (competitive) complainant in the following cases:

 

Advertiser SIRO
Medium Radio
Status Upheld
Category Misleading / Substantiation
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/telecommunications-102/
Description
 

A radio advertisement from SIRO promoted the company’s fibre to the home broadband, stating that it offered “the fastest, most reliable, futureproofed fibre broadband” through retail many different partners.

 

The complainant stated that the advertisement was misleading and contained unsubstantiated claims, noting that there was no evidence to support the claim that SIRO’s network provided the fastest or most reliable broadband to all customers. The complainant also highlighted that, as SIRO’s retail partners did not exclusively use SIRO’s network, some customers could receive broadband via alternative technologies, meaning the claim could not be applied universally.

 

 

Below is a list of four advertisement that have been found to not be in breach of the Advertising Standards Authority Code

 

Advertiser Glen Grant Limited t/a Campari UK (Aperol)
Medium Online (Third Party Website)
Status Not Upheld
Category N/A
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/alcohol-43/
Description
 

An online advertisement for Aperol appeared on YouTube and showed an Italian bar scene with customers ordering Aperol spritz.

 

The complainant argued that alcohol advertising should not have been served to their account while they were streaming historical content to their television for their children during the afternoon. They believed this placement effectively circumvented broadcast-style restrictions on alcohol advertising and resulted in the ad being seen by both them and their children.

 

 

Advertiser Richmond Marketing (Peroni)
Medium Online (third party)
Status Not Upheld
Category N/A
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/food-non-alcoholicbeverages-18/
Description
 

An online advertisement on YouTube for Peroni 0.0 showed a group of friends at a train station setting up a table at the station bar to have a drink while waiting for their train.

 

The complainant argued that an alcohol-related advertisement should not have been served to their account while they were streaming historical content to their television for their children during the afternoon. They believed that this placement effectively circumvented broadcast-style restrictions on alcohol advertising and resulted in the ad being seen by both them and their children.

 

 

Advertiser An Garda Síochána
Medium Radio
Status Not Upheld
Category N/A
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/recruitment/
Description
 

A radio advertisement for An Garda Síochána recruitment featured a 999 call from a child asking for help as their father had a knife and had hurt their mother, followed by the sound of Gardaí arriving at the scene and ordering the assailant to drop the weapon. A voiceover stated “An armed incident is usually over in seconds, but the people we help, that stays with us forever. It reminds us that it’s a tough job but it’s a job worth doing. Join An Garda Siochána today.”.

 

The complainant argued that the advertisement was inappropriate to air during a late afternoon radio programme when children were likely to be present, and said that their six-year-old child became distressed after hearing it and questioned whether the incident was real.

 

 

Advertiser Irish Ferries
Medium Online (Company’s Own Website)
Status Not Upheld
Category N/A
Link https://adstandards.ie/complaint/travel-12/
Description
 

An online advertisement on the advertiser’s own website promoted the Irish Ferries Club loyalty programme, encouraging customers to sign up, collect points on eligible spend, and progress through green, silver, and gold tiers to access savings and travel benefits.

 

The complainant argued that the advertising was misleading because not all spend was eligible to earn points, and that a significant proportion of booking costs were excluded, meaning customers might need to spend more than they expected to reach higher loyalty tiers.

 

 

The Advertising Standards Authority conducts ongoing monitoring of advertising across all media and since 2007, has examined over 27,000 advertisements, with an overall compliance rate of 98 percent. The Advertising Standards Authority Monitoring Service monitors compliance with the Complaints Council’s adjudications.

 

Media are reminded that advertisements found to be in breach of the Code cannot be accepted for publication.

 

Visit adstandards.ie to learn more

 

To keep up to date on Advertising Standards Authority activity, follow the organisation on:

 

X                      @AdStandardsIRE

Instagram        @adstandardsireland

LinkedIn          @Ad-Standards-Ireland